What is it about the passion flower vine that drives men wild and women to abandon? All those who come within five feet of this plant will swear to the tropical allure and senuous aroma

Maybe it's the Latin name that stems from passio (passion) and flos (a flower). Trust me, once you are grabbed by this unremitting beauty, you will be forever convinced to use it in your garden, no matter what the cost.

A few facts about this divine specimen:

• Passiflora, more commonly known as passion flower, is a genus of evergreen or semi-evergreen, woody-stemmed climbers grown for its unique flowers.
• These climbers are half-hardy to frost tender. In most climates, they will need to be brought inside for the winter.
• They thrive in well-drained, fertile soil, in full sun or partial shade.
• The visual beauty of its deep coral red flowers (four inches across) and overwhelming scent will cause anyone to gasp in its presence.
• Hummingbirds love the scent of this high climber.

How do I use these little jewels in my garden?

• Spilling over the sides and then draping around the other plants in a container.
• On an arbor intertwined with other climbers (soft pink roses would be a great complementary planting).
• Indoors as a smashing centerpiece.

Hints to help maximise the life of your passion flowers

• Rather than planting in the ground, plant the passion flower in a pot and then plant the pot in the ground. In the autumn, rather than transplanting (which these little darlings dislike immensely), you can bring the entire pot indoors (after spraying for bugs, of course).
• And, if you want, you can propagate by seed in the spring or use semi-ripe cuttings in summer.